Going on the display given by Katie Taylor in Fermoy on Saturday, October 11th last, the sporting superstar is on course to defend her world championship title. Sweden's Patricia Berghult proved to be a competitive opponent, but like so many before her, found it difficult to cope with Taylor's movement, speed and power.

This bout topped the bill at the recent 'Road To Rio' tournament - an event sponsored by Maher's Sports Shop and promoted by Pa Flynn of St. John's Boxing Club in Fermoy. The first port of call for Pa was a suitable venue and they don't come much better than the town's Loreto Sports Complex - Pa and company are grateful to Damien Carroll for his help in securing the spacious sports hall.

The aforementioned St. John's B.C. had two fighters on the undercard, Conna's Adam O'Brien and local favourite, Timmy McDonagh Jr. - Timmy got home by the slimmest of margins in a ding-dong battle with Tiernan Ball (Trojan B.C), while All-Ireland winner, Adam, was a little below par and went down to Luke Barrett (Rathkeale B.C.) - Timmy went on to win the best 'home' boxer award, with a very stylish Casey Berry (Bray B.C.) taking best 'away' boxer.

PROFESSIONAL SET-UP

Looking at things overall, you couldn't find any fault with the evening - there was a fine crowd, the boxing was top notch, the technical support for boxers and their coaches was first class and everyone was really well looked after. Special mention must go to medic, Johh Houlihan from Glanworth, who was ringside for every fight. A former ambulance driver and trained first aider, the vastly experienced John is a great man to have on board as he can deal with any situation that may arise.

Others who were heavily involved included: Maher's Sports, Declan Corbett and Claire Jones of The Corbett Court, who provided hospitality along with Niall Cotter and Maurice Ronan of Blackwater Motors, who helped ferry around the boxers. MC for the show was Kieran Murphy and all the timekeepers, referees and officials were on top of things throughout. Pa also got a lot of assistance from his family, with Mary manning the shop and Teresa selling raffle tickets. The match programme was well supported with a variety of sponsors from Fermoy and beyond. On the political front, public representatives in attendance included Cllr Frank O'Flynn (FF) and Deputy Sandra McLellan (Sinn Fein). Media coverage was by The Avondhu and Evening Echo.

The net result was an occasion that everyone enjoyed, it was an economic boost for the town as well as being an opportunity to see one of Ireland's greatest ever athletes in the flesh.

CLUB NOTICE

Training in the Old Eircom Building on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday (7 to 9pm) - new members always welcome. The club's main sponsor is Carey Tools, City Hall Quay in Cork.

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